William A. Mitchell was an American food scientist and inventor, best known for his work in the development of various food products. He played a significant role in the creation of popular items such as Jell-O, Pop Rocks, and Cool Whip. His innovations have had a lasting impact on the food industry. Mitchell was born on August 22, 1911, and earned a degree in chemical engineering. He worked for General Foods Corporation, where he focused on food chemistry and product development. His contributions helped shape modern convenience foods, making them more accessible and enjoyable for consumers.